Waterfall Kitchen Islands Are Officially Out: Here's What Designers Say Will Replace Them

"Waterfall kitchen islands have been synonymous with modern, upscale designs - you've likely seen them in several celebrity home tours, at least. The designs look undeniably luxurious: Expert stonework makes the "waterfall" edge appear to be one large, continuous cut of stone draping over both sides of the island and down to the floor."

"Furniture-style islands are simply kitchen islands that look like a piece of furniture. Often made from wood, they can add a lot of personality and warmth to a kitchen. They can be antique or modern, and most include storage in some capacity. Carved wooden legs can lend a much lighter and more interesting look to a space than a large block of cabinets or a mass of honed quartz."

Waterfall kitchen islands, featuring continuous stone edges draping over both sides, have dominated modern kitchen design for years. However, a shift toward furniture-style islands is emerging. These islands resemble standalone furniture pieces, typically made from wood, and can be antique or contemporary. They provide storage while adding personality and warmth to kitchens through carved wooden legs and varied finishes. Unlike the polished, uniform appearance of quartz waterfall islands, furniture-style options create more interesting, intentional, and inviting spaces. Industry experts suggest this trend reflects changing design preferences toward character and individuality over purely luxurious appearances.

Read at Apartment Therapy